The Malaysian state of Sabah on the island of Borneo is renowned for its many nature based attractions like Mt Kinabalu, Sipadan Isand, the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park amongst various others. However, the state’s newest attraction is a man-made wonder, which takes the form of a 1500 sq. foot topsy-turvy dwelling, known as Rumah Terbalik or the upside-down house.
This wondrous attraction stands out prominently in Kampung Bantayan-Telibong, Tamparuli, a destination situated on the main highway that leads to attractions like Mt Kinabalu and the Poring Hot Spring. The construction of this strange dwelling is attributed to construction firm owner and tourist lodge operator; Alexander Yee. Yee specifically chose this prominent spot for the construction of this odd dwelling, in order to ensure that it would attract maximum attention. Aside from providing entertainment, Yee wants to use the unusual structure of the house to spread his message about nature conservation.
Yee says that if we continue to use up natural resources at the rate that we are today, there will come a time in the future when nature will retaliate to turn our world upside-down and that would be calamitous. Lee wants to use his upside-down house as a cautionary measure to get people to change how they approach life and themselves.
Yee’s upside-down house was constructed over a period of six months using recycled wood and materials. This unusual home, which is the only one of its kind in all of Malaysia features various indigenous decorative elements and is outfitted with a living room, dining room, a well-equipped kitchen, a verandah, two bedrooms and toilet. The house also has a garage where a vehicle has been parked upside down keeping in line with the project’s main theme.
The Rumah Terbalik provides visitors with a totally different perspective as its ceiling is actually its floor and its screwed-in furniture and appliances seem to be suspended over your head. Onsite at the upside-down house is souvenir shop that offers souvenirs from all over Sabah and a café which serves coffee and local delights.
In February 2012, Rumah Terbalik made an entrance in the Malaysia Book of Records as the first upside-down house of Malaysia. A visit to the first upside-down house in Malaysia promises to be truly memorable and must be included as a ‘must-do’ on any tour Sabah itinerary.
Opening hours
Daily: (including public holidays): 8:00am to 10:00pm
Website : www.upsidedownhouse.com.my
Admission fees
Adults: RM18.00
Students/Children below 12 years: RM5.00
Children below 3 years: Free of charge
Photography indoors is prohibited
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